Bobby R. Hardister, 87, of Galesburg, passed away peacefully at home with his daughters at his side on Thursday, June 22, 2023.
Bobby was born on August 29, 1935 in Winchester, Illinois. He was the son of William Henry and Eileen (Shepherd) Hardister. Bobby married the love of his life, Peggy Benson on June 11, 1955 in White Hall, Illinois. Together, they celebrated 55 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on May 14, 2011. Surviving Bobby are his daughters, Debbie (Lucky) Varner of Wataga, Cathy West of Galesburg and Terri (George) Bowers of Dover, TN; grandchildren, Jennifer Sward, Braden (Cindy) Rose and Casey (Ramont) Mitchell; great-grandchildren, Milo Morrow, III, Alexia Sward and Samuel Morin, Jr., Koby Mitchell, Ramont Mitchell, Jr., Racey Mitchell and Jay’ceon Mitchell, Jameson Rose and Carter Rose. He was preceded in death by his loving wife and his parents.
Bobby attended schools in Winchester. He worked as a laborer at Admirals/Maytag for 43 years, retiring in 1980. Bobby LOVED to fish. He was known as “Catfish Bob” and looked forward to his trips to Wolf and Fox Rivers in Wisconsin. When not fishing, Bobby enjoyed watching WWE wrestling, western movies and smoking his cigars. Most of all, Bobby enjoyed spending time with his family.
Cremation rites will be accorded. Burial of cremated remains will be 10 AM, Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at the Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes & Crematory, Knoxville have been entrusted with his arrangements. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
